Overview & Reviews

Originating in the latter half of the 1990s, the Toyota RAV4 was one of the first entries in the small crossover SUV market. Almost two decades later, today's RAV4 is considerably larger than that pint-sized original, but the core appeal of versatility, good fuel economy and favorable on-road manners are firmly intact.

The RAV4 has been very popular with consumers through the years, so there are going to be plenty to choose from if you're searching for a used model. The newest third- and fourth-generation RAV4s are the most family-friendly and come with the most features, but an older RAV4 should still appeal to young families and urban singles in search of a reliable compact crossover SUV.

Current Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is offered in LE, XLE and Limited trim levels. All have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 176 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is standard and buyers can choose either front- or all-wheel drive. With an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in combined driving, the RAV4 is as fuel-efficient as its competitors.

Base LE standard feature highlights include air-conditioning, reclining second-row seats, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a touchscreen interface and iPod/USB integration. The XLE adds alloy wheels, heated mirrors, a sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control and sport front seats. The Limited features bigger wheels, a power liftgate, keyless ignition/entry, a power driver seat, heated front seats and faux leather upholstery.
Major options, depending on the trim level, include automatic high beams, blind-spot/lane-departure warning, Toyota's Entune smartphone integration system, a navigation system and premium audio.

In reviews, we've found that this RAV4 gets just about everything right. Its roomy cabin boasts more cargo room than most rivals and provides ample seating space for adults both front and rear. The overall interior design is modern looking, and the Entune system provides useful smartphone app integration, although the touchscreen's virtual buttons can sometimes be finicky to use. There's no engine upgrade available, but the RAV4's 2.5-liter four is refined and adequately powerful. Handling is secure, and the all-wheel-drive system adds further athleticism on curvy and slippery road surfaces. In the interest of comfort, we recommend the smaller wheel options, as the 18-inch wheels tend to have a rougher ride quality.

Used Toyota RAV4 Models
The current, fourth-generation RAV4 debuted for 2013. It maintained the typical RAV4 strengths of carlike driving manners, versatile cargo and passenger configurations and all-around comfort. It's about the same size as the previous generation, but has bolder styling, a more modern interior and some new features. It also has an easier-to-use, top-hinged liftgate instead of the previous swing-out gate, though the previously available third-row seat was discontinued. There have been no notable changes since its debut.

The previous Toyota RAV4 represented the third generation, which Toyota produced from 2006-'12. Compared to earlier models, these RAV4s were bigger and offered an available V6 engine and third-row seat.

In its inaugural third-generation year, two engine choices were offered. A 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine delivered 166 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque, while a 3.5-liter V6 produced 269 hp and 246 lb-ft of torque. Automatic transmissions were standard, with the four-cylinder paired with a four-speed, while the V6 received a five-speed unit.

Three trim levels were also offered: base, Sport and Limited. Base feature highlights included air-conditioning, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat and full power accessories. The Sport added 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and a roof rack, while the Limited topped it off with 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver seat and an upgraded audio system. A third-row seat, a moonroof, leather upholstery and a DVD-based rear entertainment system were options on upper level trims.

We praised these models for their pleasant driving manners and convenient cargo space, but deducted points for the side-hinged rear gate and noticeable road noise. We also preferred the powerful V6 over the base four-cylinder engine that suffered with its outdated transmission and mediocre fuel economy.

Changes since its debut were minimal but included additional standard airbags in 2007, a slight styling update in 2009 (with an external spare-tire delete option) and a power increase for the four-cylinder engine (from 166 hp to 179 hp). A newly available touchscreen audio interface and Toyota's Entune smartphone apps were introduced for 2012.

The second-generation Toyota RAV4 (2001-'05) was larger than the original RAV4, with more expressive styling and innovative removable second-row seats that gave it truly impressive cargo-carrying capabilities. Early models had a 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that came up short versus the larger four- and six-cylinder engines offered by competitors. Toyota addressed this to some extent in 2004 by replacing the 2.0-liter with a larger 2.4-liter four-cylinder good for 160 hp. Acceleration was markedly improved, and buyers could still choose a manual or automatic transmission. Overall, we found this RAV4 to be a fun-to-drive urban runabout thanks to its precise suspension tuning and high fuel economy ratings.

The first-generation Toyota RAV4 (1996-2000) was offered in two-door and four-door body styles, with a convertible version for a brief period. The first-gen RAV4 was appealing to young singles, but due to its narrow width and tight rear legroom, this cute ute was ultimately no substitute for a traditional family vehicle. Advantages included carlike handling, a low cargo floor and a large rear door that made loading cargo a breeze.

User Reviews:

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  Thanks Toyota for the fun reliable ride - 2000 Toyota RAV4
  By Brandon - July 10 - 10:46 pm

  Finally I own an SUV that does what is supposed to do - drive. I have had this RAV4 now for 2 years after purchasing it with quite a few miles already on it. I cannot tell enough how great it is to go out to my car everyday and not worry about getting where I need to go. I now travel safely and comfortably. On top of that its been the best car singing environment yet. The only thing I would change would be an automatic overdrive. I always forget it is engaged after I get off the highway. JMHO Cheers

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  Good second vehicle - 2003 Toyota RAV4
  By rav4brian - July 8 - 2:27 am

  I gave my son my 03 Corolla S to us for college, so I went out car shopping and after test driving the Rav4 is was hooked, it had a very comfortable drive, I knew I was driving a Toyota, . last winter here in Missouri we had several big snowstorms and blizzards roll through the area, my AWD Rav4 didnt have any difficulty getting around in the deep snow, the corolla would have never made it out of the drive way

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  Fun to drive - RAV4 - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By srlobdell - July 5 - 2:43 am

  I have been driving my 2007 Toyota RAV4 for about 5 months. I love driving it. The 6 cylinder engine and 4WD are sporty and fun. It is incredibly easy to handle, park, etc. The driveability is like a sedan, but the SUV body type lifts the driver for better visibility. I cant compare the maintenence cost to other SUVs, as Ive only previously owned cars. The interior of the 2007 limited edition RAV4 is very comfortable and loaded with options. The cargo area is huge and the fifth door makes loading it very easy. I love this car!

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  Engine replaced at 56K. No more Toyota for me. - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By nomoretoyota7 - July 4 - 9:07 pm

  Sadly, though not my first Toyota, this will be my last. I had to replace my engine due to a hose failure. No recall on this part, but they changed the design in 2009.... wonder why...mmm. I take good care of my vehicles and got regular oil changes. This has become the most expensive car I have ever owned. And I bought it because of the Toyota reputation.

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  LOVE my RAV!! - 2007 Toyota RAV4
  By vtimm - July 4 - 6:06 pm

  I am in sales and pretty much live in my vehicle. Because Im in the construction industry and do some off- road driving to get to job sites, I decided to get the Rav4 Sport for the 4WD. I love the roominess and the layout. It is very comfortable and fun to drive. I also get excellent gas mileage. I am extremely pleased with it!

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  one mans opinion - 2003 Toyota RAV4
  By Jeffber - June 21 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun to drive and the looks with the sport package are better than all the other compact suvs. The seats could use lumbar support. The performance is ok for a 4 cylinder (it’s not a race car). The gas mileage is awesome. The ride and handling are great. I purchased this because I have 1 child and another on the way and the ranger extend cab wasn’t going to cut it; this suv is perfect for me. The legroom in the back is ok for kids but 4 adults riding in this car would not be comfortable.

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  Love our RAV4!! - 1999 Toyota RAV4
  By mrbsmallz - June 18 - 10:18 am

  Bought the RAV4 used in 2004 for my wife. At the time it had 99K miles. Recognizing it was time for service, I immediately invested $400 to replace the timing belt, water pump, and replace fluids. 100K miles later (199K), this little truck is still going strong and continues to look brand new inside and out. Everything works except minor items (seat belt light blinks constantly on dash ). The maintenance is due again and Im glad to invest another $400 to keep her going. Planning to pass along to our son in the next few years. We have had NO problems with this truck. Only replaced the battery, spark plugs, regular fluid changes, brakes, and tires. Would definitely recommend!

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  Got one of the last few 08 RAV4 left - 2008 Toyota RAV4
  By BenLiu - June 17 - 4:30 am

  Bought one of the few 2008 V6 AWD base model left after comparing Honda CRV, Subaru Forester, and 08 Highlander. Perfect size for my family of 4 with 2 teenagers. Like the efficiency of the electric-on-demand AWD with reasonably good mpg and absolutely fun to drive. However, dont expect the quietness/refinement of a Camry. Road vibration/noise sometimes noticeable at any speed. If you want to take advantage of the last few 08 RAV4 left like I did, make sure you check out the 09 model before making the decision as Toyota made some good improvements which may be important to you.

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  FirstToyota - 2016 Toyota RAV4
  By Jaclyn - June 16 - 10:43 pm

  I was on my way to purchase a (Nissan Pathfinder), reluctantly. I purchased a beautiful Black Currant (new color for 2016) RAV4 XLE AWD right off the lot on my way to the Nissan dealer instead. The color is AWESOME, the drive is absolute FUN and Incredibly competent, visibility is wonderful, love the power lift gate, not a CVT (sigh of relief), its cozy inside, decent sound system, awesome Michelin tires I insisted be on any test driven or purchased Toyota, etc. Its sporty, sexy, unique, and Ive only heard excellent things about Toyota reliability (maybe goes with out saying). It is the closest thing I have found to perfect in this class. After six months of research I.e. Consumer reports, jd power, car gurus, the car connection, multiple extended test drives (Mazda CX-5 2016, BMW 328x drive, MINIs, VW, Volvo, Audi A3, Honda CRV, Subaru crosstrek, 2015 Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and I owned a 2014 pathfinder (loved it, but so big). I had it for 7,000 miles with no problems (long story). I owned a 2013 CRV loved that, too (the 2015sand 2016s are totally different; in a BAD way). The Mazda felt cheap and Im glad I didnt get into that due to the recent CX-5 "total recall". I did try the 2015 Rav4 and I wasnt a fan for multiple reasons, but this 2016 is so AMAZING...I cant believe it (beyond grateful I loved the 2016). Im glad I didnt go luxury, because Im not printing money in my living room. I owned and loved a VW for 6 years. Although I loved it, that taught me a lesson about reliability. Reliability, handling, visibility, comfort, and asthetics are all extremely important to me in my early thirties. I believe this RAV4 has it all. Thank you, Toyota! Hopefully, this is the start of a great relationship for years to come. I will update on reliability after a road trip.

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  OK, just OK - 2003 Toyota RAV4
  By Russ - June 14 - 2:50 pm

  This is my wifes car and she loves it except for poor mileage (17mpg in town) and the noise. Good tires would help the noise and ride. Traction is excellent. Seats are good in front and marginal in back. The swing out tailgate with attached spare tire is awkward